Avalanche forecast

West Slopes South

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Saturday should be the nicer weather day of the weekend with generally safe avalanche conditions. This doesn’t mean that danger does not exist, so be prepared to make your own observations and adjust your travel plans accordingly. If you notice that the snow is deeper and softer than you expected or is being blown around by the wind, you could experience locally higher danger.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Dry

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    Recent snow fell on a stout rain crust and with the right conditions, could produce Loose Dry avalanches on Saturday. Often called sluffs, Loose Dry avalanches start at a point, then entrain additional snow and fan out as they move downhill. These slides have the ability to run quickly and knock you off your feet, so be aware of where you are in terrain and avoid stopping underneath steep slopes or near terrain traps. Unsupported slopes, large terrain features steeper than 35 degrees, and any slopes with evidence of wind-drifted snow have a higher likelihood of producing these avalanches.

    (3/8/2020) Example Dry Loose: This Dry Loose slide was triggered at a single point by a skier, then entrained snow and fanned out as it traveled downhill. Don't let one of these catch you in consequential terrain.

Avalanche Discussion

You should find generally safe avalanche conditions throughout the zone on Saturday, with the possibility of locally higher danger on the southern volcanoes where they received a bit more snow on Thursday. Regardless of where you are, the danger will not be non-existent, so you will need to make your own observations to help you determine the hazard. Keep your eyes open for changing snow conditions throughout the day due to wind or the sun’s influence. On slopes holding cold and dry snow, watch out for Dry Loose avalanches and the possibility of small wind slabs forming throughout the day. If the sun is out for a prolonged period of time, it could destabilize the new snow on slopes that receive direct sunlight. This could result in a few rollerballs and pinwheels as precursors to Wet Loose avalanches. Although unlikely, any avalanches should be small in size and confined to the upper snowpack above the 12/9 crust. Remember that even a small avalanche could have large consequences in big terrain, so when in doubt, you should default to low-angle slopes. 

Recent weather wreaked havoc on the snow in the West South leaving us with variable and potentially difficult travel conditions. Firm surfaces abound under the recent fresh snow and many previously buried obstacles have now reemerged. You’ll need to navigate around numerous open creeks, downed logs, and areas of thin coverage. Give yourself extra time to manage these demanding travel conditions.

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources.  Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.

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